Power morcellators are medical devices that can perform hysterectomies and other medical procedures in a less invasive manner than traditional surgical methods. However, the device lost credibility when it was discovered it can significantly increase the chances of developing cancer in some women.

Researchers found that when the morcellator is used, dormant cancerous cells can be released into the body, where they can later metastasize into tumors. Data from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration shows at least 1-in-350 women are at an increased risk of developing power morcellator cancer when the devices are used.

These discoveries have led to hundreds of lawsuits being filed against the makers of the devices, claiming victims were not warned of the risks before undergoing a power morcellator surgery. Now, these cases are being consolidated into multidistrict litigation.

According to KCUR 98.3 Radio, more than two dozen power morcellator cancer lawsuits—a majority of which are filed against device manufacturer Ethicon— have been moved to a Kansas City, Kansas, federal court to be heard. U.S. District Judge, Kathryn H. Vratil, has been assigned to preside over the case.

The legal staff at Ferrer, Poirot & Wansbrough believe in holding companies accountable for the safety of the products they make. That’s why our defective medical device lawyers are hopeful a decision in the cases will bring a sense of closure to individuals harmed by morcellators.